Wilmington Delaware Construction and Development Permit Guide

Wilmington homeowners should check construction and development review before new structures, changes to existing structures, demolition, repairs, electrical, plumbing, mechanical, zoning, public works, or fire review.

Permit takeaway

Wilmington states that permits are required for new structures, changes to existing structures including demolition, and repairs including electrical, plumbing, and mechanical work.

Zoning and placement

Development review can include zoning, building, demolition, public works, planning, historic district, waterfront, fire protection, sediment and stormwater, streets, sidewalks, utilities, and floodplain requirements.

Building and trade review

The city's building permit application asks for residential category, work type, valuation, contractor information, design professional information when required, and all trade crafts required for the work.

Call before applying when

Call before applying if the project includes exterior changes, demolition, plumbing, electrical, HVAC, alarm, sprinklers, historic district work, waterfront district work, or public works impacts.

Documents to prepare

• Building permit application
• Zoning review materials
• Construction drawings
• Trade scope list
• Public works or fire review materials when applicable

Inspection planning

• Check zoning and utility issues
• Apply for building permit
• Complete required development reviews
• Schedule inspections
• Request final inspection and occupancy approval when required

Official sources

• Wilmington Construction and Development Review
• Wilmington Development Resources
• Wilmington Building Permit Application

This guide is a planning summary. Always verify the current requirements with the local office before starting work.